The 14 BEST things to do in Mongar, Bhutan

Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about best things to do in Mongar, Bhutan!

Welcome to Mongar, Bhutan – a small, serene town nestled in the eastern Himalayas. With its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and friendly locals, Mongar is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Atmosphere / Vibes

Man in Red Robe Sitting beside Green Metal Fence in Mongar, Bhutan.
Photo by Minh Ngo
Mongar has a laid-back, peaceful atmosphere that will immediately put you at ease. The locals are warm and welcoming, and the town has a strong sense of community. It’s the kind of place where everyone knows everyone, and strangers are always greeted with a smile.

Weather throughout the year

Passenger Plane on Tarmac in Mongar, Bhutan.
Photo by Yanni Shams
Mongar has a temperate climate, with cool, dry winters and warm, humid summers. The temperature ranges from about 50°F (10°C) in the winter to about 80°F (27°C) in the summer. The town gets a fair amount of rain, so it’s a good idea to pack a rain jacket if you’re visiting during the monsoon season.

Why Mongar, Bhutan is the best place to be

Golden Statue of Buddhist Female God at Buddha Dordenma Temple
Photo by Prateek Katyal
There are so many reasons why Mongar is the best place to be. For starters, it’s a hidden gem that’s still relatively undiscovered by tourists, so you can enjoy all that it has to offer without the crowds. Additionally, the town is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, with the Himalayas serving as a stunning backdrop. And of course, there’s the food – Bhutanese cuisine is delicious, with dishes like ema datshi (chili and cheese) and momos (dumplings) that you won’t find anywhere else.

Cost of Travel

Paro Taktsang in Bhutan in Mongar, Bhutan.
Photo by Ming Zimik
Bhutan is a unique country in that it has a “high value, low impact” tourism policy, which means that all tourists are required to pay a minimum daily tariff that includes their accommodations, meals, and transportation. This may seem like a bit of a hassle, but it actually helps to preserve the country’s natural beauty and cultural traditions. The minimum daily tariff is $250 per person per day, but there are discounts available for children, students, and large groups.

Top 14 best things to do in Mongar, Bhutan

A Buddhist Monastery With Red Lights in Mongar, Bhutan.
Photo by Setu Chhaya
  1. Visit the Mongar Dzong, a beautiful fortress that dates back to the 16th century. The dzong is home to a number of temples, and it’s a great place to learn about Bhutanese culture and history.
  2. Go hiking in the nearby forests and mountains. With its rugged terrain and breathtaking views, Bhutan is a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
  3. Take a dip in one of the town’s many hot springs. The hot springs in Bhutan are believed to have therapeutic properties, and they’re a great way to relax after a long day of exploring.
  4. Experience Bhutanese culture by attending a local festival. Bhutan has a number of colorful festivals throughout the year, and they’re a great opportunity to see traditional dance and music performances.
  5. Try your hand at archery, the national sport of Bhutan. Archery tournaments are held frequently in Mongar, and it’s a lot of fun to watch or even participate in a match.
  6. Visit the local markets and try some of the delicious street food. Bhutanese food is spicy and flavorful, and the local markets are the perfect place to sample some of the delicious dishes that Bhutan has to offer.
  7. markets are the perfect place to sample some of the delicious dishes that Bhutan has to offer.
  8. Go birdwatching in the nearby forests. Bhutan is home to a number of rare and exotic birds, including the colorful Himalayan monal and the elusive black-necked crane.
  9. Visit the Khaling Weaving Center to see traditional Bhutanese textiles being made. The center is run by a cooperative of women who produce beautiful hand-woven fabrics using traditional techniques.
  10. Take a tour of the nearby villages and get a glimpse of daily life in Bhutan. The Bhutanese people are incredibly welcoming, and you’ll be sure to make some new friends along the way.
  11. Go rafting on one of the many rivers that flow through Bhutan. The country’s rugged terrain and high altitude make for some exciting rafting opportunities.
  12. Take a day trip to the nearby town of Trashigang, known for its beautiful monasteries and stunning views of the Himalayas.
  13. Visit the Bhutanese Farmhouse to see traditional Bhutanese agriculture in action. The farmhouse is a working farm that produces a variety of crops, and it’s a great place to learn about Bhutanese agriculture and rural life.
  14. Go paragliding and see the stunning views of the Himalayas from above. Bhutan’s high altitude and stable climate make it a great place for paragliding.
  15. Take a trip to the Royal Manas National Park, Bhutan’s oldest and largest protected area. The park is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, and it’s a great place for nature lovers.

Conclusion

Purple Flower Under Blue Sky
Photo by Minh Ngo
Mongar, Bhutan is a hidden gem that has so much to offer. From its rich culture and stunning natural beauty, to its delicious food and friendly locals, there’s something for everyone in this small but mighty town. So come on down and see for yourself why Mongar is the best place to be!


Have you thought about staying in Mongar for a little longer and working remotely? Here is another blog post about becoming a Digital Nomad in Mongar

Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in Bhutan, such as Gangtey, Trongsa or Thimphu.